Karen Davila Denies Alleged Payment from Discayas for YouTube Feature

A Facebook page recently sparked online discussions after posting claims regarding veteran journalist Karen Davila’s alleged refusal to accept payment from the Discaya family in exchange for featuring them on her YouTube channel. The page, Assortedge, shared a post stating, “Journalism is not for sale,” in reference to the issue.

The debate comes in the wake of allegations that surfaced online suggesting that certain media personalities were paid large sums of money to feature Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya II and Cezarah Rowena “Sarah” Discaya in interviews and online shows. The Discayas, who are known in Pasig City politics, previously ran for office against current Mayor Vico Sotto.

Davila, however, firmly denied that she had ever accepted or entertained any payment in exchange for interviews. She stressed that it would be “unethical” for journalists to report stories for money, especially if the subjects are potential political candidates or individuals seeking to influence public opinion.

The controversy heated up further after Mayor Sotto mentioned in his

The Discaya family became a subject of public scrutiny following their unsuccessful bid in the last local elections. They were also linked to infrastructure projects under the Duterte administration. Reports claim that some of these government-funded projects, particularly flood control initiatives, are now under investigation after allegedly failing to deliver expected results.

On social media, the debate has divided netizens. Supporters of the journalists defended their credibility, pointing out their long careers in broadcasting and their established reputations. Others, however, questioned whether money truly plays a role in the rising trend of vlog features and online interviews with political personalities.